If you’ve been treated for breast cancer and are due to have a mastectomy or lumpectomy, your doctor may have spoken to you about breast reconstruction. But how do you decide if it’s right for you?

There are many women who choose to have their breast (or breasts) reconstructed following a mastectomy and there are many who choose not to. There is no right or wrong choice. Here are a few points to consider when making your decision, according to breastcancer.org and the American Cancer Society.

MORE: Find out details about breast reconstruction.

Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Many women choose to have breast reconstruction immediately after a mastectomy. This allows surgeons to preserve the breast skin, which can produce a better-looking reconstruction, although it’s possible that you may need further procedures at a later date.

Delayed Breast Reconstruction
Some may not want to deal with the recovery of breast reconstruction or may not be ready to make a final decision regarding breast reconstruction. In these cases, women can delay breast reconstruction for as long as they want. In addition, doctors may be concerned about the overall health of the women, particularly if she smokes and may suggest she waits until she is physically stronger before undergoing breast reconstruction.

Doctors may also advise patients wait for breast reconstruction if they need radiation therapy.

MORE: Seven things you need to know if you’ve just been diagnosed with breast cancer. 

Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are two ways breast reconstructions can be done. The first option uses silicon or saline implants and the second is a tissue flap procedure using the woman’s own body tissue, usually from the back, thighs, stomach or buttocks.  A combination of the two procedure can also be done.

Areola and nipple reconstruction can also be done at the same time as the breast reconstruction.

Prosthetics or “Going Flat”
Many women choose not to have further surgery and opt for prosthetic breasts that they can wear with a bra underneath their clothing. In addition, many women choose to just “go flat” and don’t try to replicate their breasts in any way.

MORE: Bamboo bras being used in the U.K. for women after mastectomy to help avoid infection.

Breast Cancer News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.